SPACE
For Parents of Adult Children with Failure to Launch
SPACE-FTL is a specialized therapeutic approach designed to assist parents who have a young adult child who is struggling to transition into independent adulthood. Parents in this situation face the challenging reality of having to find a way to be supportive of their child as they build their adult life without over-accommodating and enabling dependency.
What is SPACE for Failure to Launch (SPACE-FTL)?
Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE) Treatment, originally designed to help parents support anxious children, has evolved to address another common challenge faced by families: the issue of "failure to launch" among young adults. Failure to launch refers to a situation where young adults struggle to transition into independent adulthood, often depending heavily on their parents for support. By adapting SPACE Treatment principles, therapists help parents navigate this complex issue and empower their young adult children to become self-sufficient and independent.
Young adults experiencing failure to launch may face difficulties in various areas, including finding stable employment, pursuing education, managing finances, and developing basic life skills. Parents often find themselves in a challenging role, torn between their desire to help, and their concern about enabling dependency. SPACE-FTL Treatment can provide guidance in these situations.
Here's a breakdown of some of the key principles of SPACE Treatment for Parents:
What's Involved in SPACE FTL treatment?
SPACE Treatment for young adults with “failure to launch” provides families with a roadmap for navigating this transitional period successfully. By empowering parents to strike a balance between support and independence, this approach guides parents in how they can help their child develop the skills and confidence needed to achieve self-sufficiency and thrive as an independent adult.The therapy process begins with a comprehensive assessment of the young adult child's challenges and current situation, as well as the family dynamics. This helps therapists tailor the treatment plan to the family's unique needs. The following components are a part of every treatment plan:
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Psychoeducation: Parents receive education about the challenges associated with failure to launch and the principles of SPACE Treatment.
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Parental Training: Parents are trained in applying SPACE principles to the unique challenges of supporting a young adult who is struggling to launch.
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Gradual Independence Plan: Therapists work with parents to develop a structured plan for gradually increasing the young adult's independence in various life domains.
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Ongoing Support: Regular therapy sessions give parents ongoing support and assistance in making adjustments to the independence plan, as well as help in addressing any challenges that arise.
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Therapy for the Young Adult: If your child decides that they would like to be involved in therapy, they will be paired with a clinician who can offer a personalized treatment based on what they need. This might include DBT, CBT or ERP treatment.
At CWML, we're dedicated to providing compassionate and effective SPACE treatment by specially trained therapists. Our team of licensed and highly experienced therapists are here to support you and your adult child on your journey to improved mental health and well-being. We tailor each treatment plan to meet your unique needs and goals, ensuring that you receive personalized care every step of the way. Our goal is to empower you to lead a life that is balanced, fulfilling, and meaningful, an approach to life we call Wise Mind Living.